Includes bibliographical references (p. [707]-724) and index

This first cohesively integrated history of the Cold War is replete with important lessons for today. Drawing upon literature, strategy, biography, and economics--plus an inside perspective from the intelligence community--Derek Leebaert explores what Americans sacrificed at the same time that they achieved the longest great-power peace since Rome fell. Why did they commit so much in wealth and opportunity with so little sustained complaint? Why did the conflict drag on for decades? What did the Cold War do to the country, and how? What was lost while victory was gained? Leebaert has uncovered an astonishing array of never-published documents and information, including major revelations about American covert operations and Soviet military activities. He has found, in the shadows of one of this century's great, epic stories, the sort of details and explanations that hit with the force of a lightning bolt and will change forever the way we think about our past.--From publisher description

1945: at the top of the wave -- Back to the future (1946-1950) -- Getting the habit (1950-1953) -- Nothing so simple (1953-1956) -- Settling in for the long haul (1956-1961) -- The burden and the glory (1961-1963) -- The burden felt (1964-1969) -- Blight on the battlefield (1969-1975) -- In the hollow of the wave (1975-1981) -- Hard pounding (1981-1985) -- Shaking loose (1985-1989) -- Unintended consequences (1989- )

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